In 1908 Orville and Wilbur Wright were testing planes and renewing their pilot skills in Kitty Hawk, N.C. Fast forward to 2016 where flying in an airplane has become a common form of transportation. What’s next? Planes powered by solar energy. This paired text allows students to explore the evolution of our society through inventions in transportation.

In 2015, President Barack Obama visited Alaska, home to the highest peak on American soil. However, this wouldn't be possible if former President William McKinley didn't approve of the purchase of Alaska from Russia which was considered a controversial purchase at the time. Use this paired text to delve into how past decisions affect our future.

During the 19th century, the westward expansion of the U.S. prompted faster ways to transport people and goods. Fast forward to today where we are exploring just how fast we can get somewhere with the invention of the bullet train. How has the public reacted to both of these inventions? Have your students compare and contrast the reaction of the country in both time periods.